esl material

Conversation Topic: Work

Jack Bradshawjack_bradshaw [at] hotmail.com

http://www.geocities.com/TheTropics/Equator/6163/Knowledge Level

I have found that it works best with intermediate to advanced level students, but I tried to make the topics progressively more difficult to discuss so that it could be used by any level.

Age RangeI have never tried this with high-school age students or younger.

TimeThe classes I teach are an hour in length and I have never covered all six topics completely in that time. An hour is typically enough time to cover the first four topics with a beginner class and enough to cover five or six topics with a higher level group.

The Lesson

1. If you could have any job in the world, what would you like to be? Why?

2. Do you think it's fair for your boss to ask you to work overtime for no extra pay? Why or why not?

3. If you are paid for your overtime, would you prefer to be paid in money or in "time off."

4. Which of the following benefits is most important to you in a job and why?

A high salary Good working conditions A boss you enjoy working for Co-workers you like Little or no overtime Good opportunities for advancement The opportunity to use the training and skills

you have acquired A job near where you live The opportunity to travel Flexible working hours

o Are there any of these not important to you?o Are there any benefits not on the list that you would

like to have?

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5. Suppose you are in charge of hiring a new employee for your firm. You have to decide between two persons. One is a person with many years of experience in a company very similar to yours who has only a high school education. The other person is a recent university graduate with a degree in a field closely related to your company's business. Which person would you choose?

6. Most business in North America compensate their employees according to the "merit principle." Businesses in many other parts of the world have traditionally relied on seniority to determine how much pay and other benefits a worker should receive. Which do you think is the better system? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each?

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Talking CardsMichael J. Brown

mjbprac [at] datainternet.comHong Kong

Materials required:One or two packs of playing cards and the questions sheet.

Objectives:To get the student used to answering general questions at a level that resembles normal speech. To give the students conversational confidence.

How to play:You distribute the cards among your students. If you have a large class use two packs of cards. The student answers the corresponding question to that card. The student is awarded 4 points for a complete answer, 3 points for a reasonable answer, 2 points for an incomplete answer, and 1 point for any answer at all. If your class is up to it, you can get them to award the points.

Spades (Describing things)

AceDescribe your face.

KingDescribe your clothes.

QueenDescribe your mother.

JackDescribe your father.

TenDescribe an apple.

NineDescribe your bedroom.

EightDescribe your best friend.

SevenDescribe what you had for breakfast today.

SixDescribe your English teacher.

FiveDescribe the difference between a dog and a cat.

FourDescribe a pencil.

ThreeDescribe your favourite hobby.

TwoDescribe this game.

Hearts (what questions)

AceWhat did you have for dinner last night?

KingWhat did you have for lunch today?

QueenWhat is your favourite sport? Why?

JackWhat did you do last night?

TenWhat type of music do you like? Why?

NineWhat is your favourite game? Why?

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EightWhat does your mother do?

SevenWhat does your father do?

SixWhat is your favourite lesson at school? Why?

FiveWhat did you do last Sunday?

FourWhat is your favourite television programme? Why?

ThreeWhat would you do if you could do anything in the world?

TwoWhat is the one thing you would change about yourself?

Clubs (mixed questions)

AceWhat is your address in English?

KingWhat time do you usually get up?

QueenWhere did you go for your last holiday?

JackWhere were you born?

TenWhy are you studying English?

NineWhich do you prefer, summer or winter, and why?

EightWhich magazines do you like to read?

SevenHow many hours do you usually sleep at night?

SixDo you like shopping? Why?

FiveHow often do you go to the cinema?

FourWhat was the last movie you saw?

ThreeWould you like to travel to other countries? Why?

TwoHow many friends have you got and who are they?

Diamonds (if clause)

AceIf you could have a pet what would it be?

KingIf you had a million dollars what would you spend it on?

QueenIf you could meet any person in the world who would it be and why?

JackIf you could change something about your school what would it be?

TenIf you had to live in another country which one would you choose?

NineIf you could do anything in the world what would you do?

EightIf you could speak three languages well, what would they be?

Seven

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If you were rich, what would you do?Six

If you had to spend a day alone at home, what would you do?Five

If everyone in the world suddenly disappeared, what would you do?Four

If you could choose how old you were, how old would you be and why?Three

If you could choose any meal you wanted, what would it be?Two

If you found $100,000 what would you do?

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Finish the SentenceGerard Counihan

profesorSs [at] blabla.es

Level: Good beginner/Intermediate.

A simple activity which at first sight looks like a grammar-type exercise. However, the students must complete each unfinished phrase truthfully. The example given, for instance, can have many different endings, according to each person's situation.

Most importantly, I would advise you to start this activity in silence, with each student writing down his or her own completion. This guarantees that people will not be stuck for words, which usually happens if you present somebody with a half-finished sentence and ask for an immediate verbal reaction. I have found that, if you give students time to think, they will produce better sentences. The bonus here is that if, for example, you have a group of seven, each student will probably come up with a different finish. This will definitely trigger interest on the part of the other students, and reduce tension. Moreover, it is the student who gets to create something. The teacher merely oversees, and hence does not dominate the class.

Example:

My car ...o My car broke down two months ago while I was coming home from work.o My car cost a lot but I don't like it anymore.

Now you try it.

My best friend ... Last night ... I have never ... The third world ... Politicians ... Parents ... I once dreamt that ... Christmas ... I get really angry when ... Some people ... Going on holiday ... Having my hair cut ... Making my bed ... Talking to a drunk ... Hippies ... A millionaire ... When it rains, I ... Vegetarians ...

If any of the sentences should provoke debate, let it develop.

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Giving and Accepting ComplimentsGerard Counihan


Brief Introduction for the Teacher

Socio-linguists speaking on the subject of politeness point out that there are three phenomena at play when a compliment is paid to someone: the recipient can choose to accept it directly, indirectly, or refuse it (he or she can presumably produce a blend of all three). All these strategies are not ill-intentioned, of course, they are employed by human beings in tricky situations, because dealing with a compliment is a delicate affair.

If you accept it right away, we are told, your response may insinuate superiority:

John, you are so intelligent. I knew it all the time.

If you refuse a compliment, you may upset the giver.

John, you look great. Not at all, I look terrible.

On the other hand, we have the problem of frequency; if someone is lavish with compliments-and never stops giving them, we could ask ourselves if he or she really means it. Americans, for example, are claimed to be particularly fond of complimenting, whereas other nationalities would be perhaps more inclined to avoid what are seen as potentially embarrassing situations. As a result, Americans have been accused of hypocrisy, while, we can suppose, the latter can be accused of being cold-natured. And then again, one can argue that an abundance of complimenting can reflect equality, directness, honesty, spontaneity. It is a no-win situation, but it must be dealt with, because compliments do occur and are paid. It is, I believe, not a vital area of learning a target language, but, if nothing, else, teachers can sensitise their students to an interesting area of interaction, and perhaps generate some fun in the process.

Activity A

Get the students to talk about how they or people in their countries deal with compliments.

Activity B

Get the students to give (and react to) the following unfinished compliments. They can do it in pairs or in small groups. It might be a good idea to split up the students into pairs, and to ask them to write down each other's replies. In this way, each pair can report back to the rest of the class when the chosen compliments have been dealt with. Listening to other students' efforts is good fun. Each pair could also "act out" their mini dialogue. Encourage the students to inject some emotion into the exchanges, that is make sure they use appropriate intonation.

Possible Compliments:

You look ..What a lovely ...You speak English ...I like your new ...Your perm is ...Where did you get that (indirect ) ...You write very well, you should ...I admire your ...Well done, your work ...Congratulations on your ...Keep up the good work, ...You take after your mother/father, ...

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What Type of Student Are You?Gerard Counihan


Purpose

These questions and the author's personal interpretations are likely to trigger conversation.

The Questions

Answer the following questionnaire by putting a True (T) or a False (F) after each sentence.

(If you are hesitating between T and F, put both).

A. I often study English, at home, in a library, on the train.B. I need English for my work, to pass an exam, to get a job.C. I don't like making grammar mistakes when I speak English.D. I began learning English because my parents felt it was necessary for the future.E. I love speaking English with other learners of the same level.F. I go to English conversation classes because I simply want to, not because I

have to.G. I think my teachers should force me to speak more in conversation class.H. I would love to go on a year-long world tour, even if I had little money.I. If I don't speak in conversation class, it is because the topic/task is bad.J. I watch English-language TV and films in English-even though I understand

nothing!K. I hate it when one person does all the talking in conversation class.L. Quite often, I am happy just to listen to the teacher.M. I often feel a little stupid when I talk in conversation class.N. I think the teacher is what motivates a student most.O. I prefer learning grammar, vocabulary, etc to speaking English.P. I wish I could go to a conversation class every day instead of just twice a week.Q. Basically, I think a conversation class should be for practising the grammar you

have just learnt.R. I regularly ask the other students questions and comment on what they say in

conversation class.S. I am a woman.

Interpretation

A, E, F, H, J, P, R = True. This, basically, indicates a self-motivated, hard-working learner. It also indicates desire to socialise, to meet other races and cultures. This is what language is for. The perfect student: A talker and a worker!

B, D, G, I, K, N = True. There is a strong sense of being "obliged" to learn, which is not self-motivation. Not a crime, but the learner must want to achieve for himself. Also, this type of learner blames his performance on others/external factors. This may not be the ideal ingredient for a good communicator/worker.

C, O = True. This can mean that you are a perfectionist. You pay attention to formal detail. Can be good, but it can also be an obstacle to communication. An anxious talker.

G, I, K, L, N = True. This implies a degree of passiveness. If you want to talk, don't think about it-act! This learner could also lack self-motivation. A sporadic talker.

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M = True. It happens everybody at the beginning. But you must get over this after a few classes. You will

Q = True. This is a big issue. But how can you talk about the world with a few set phrases? You may be a traditional learner expecting a traditional class. Remember, the ultimate aim of English is to communicate.

S = True. Bingo! It is said that women work harder-at languages too. They also miss less classes than men.

As with everything related to motivation, it is impossible to be categorical, ie seemingly negative factors can end up motivating some learners. Also, some of the above statements may apply to several interpretations. Nothing is black and white.

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Six Games for the EFL/ESL ClassroomAydan Ersöz

aersoz [at] server.gef.gazi.edu.trGazi University (Ankara, Turkey)

Well-chosen games are invaluable as they give students a break and at the same time allow students to practice language skills. This paper provides some sample games that can be used in the language classroom.

Why Use Games

Language learning is a hard task which can sometimes be frustrating. Constant effort is required to understand, produce and manipulate the target language. Well-chosen games are invaluable as they give students a break and at the same time allow students to practice language skills. Games are highly motivating since they are amusing and at the same time challenging. Furthermore, they employ meaningful and useful language in real contexts. they also encourage and increase cooperation.

Some Advice

Games should be regarded as supplementary activities. The whole syllabus should not be based on games only -- even for young learners.

When choosing a game, the teacher should be careful to find an appropriate one for the class in terms of language and type of participation.

Once the game has begun, the teacher should not interrupt to correct mistakes in language use.

The teacher should not compel an individual to participate. Some learners may not want to participate due to personal reasons. Forcing students to participate usally does not have successful results.

A game which looks wonderful on the paper may not work in the actual classroom setting. If it is tiring or boring, it should be stopped.

Give clear instructions. Unless the learners know what he is expected to do and how to do it, the aim cannot be achieved, and the game cannot be played.

In order to demonstrate how to use games in the classroom, some examples are provided below.

Game 1: Whisper Circles

Aim: Speaking (using a whisper), pronunciation, listening, grammar (it takes ...to do ...)

Notes:1. Divide the students into groups of 7 to 10.2. Choose one leader from each group. Give the leaders the card which has

the sentence "It takes about six seconds for something you drink to reach your stomach." Ask him to memorize the sentence, go back to his group and whisper what he has read on the card to the person on his right. Each person will whisper the sentence to the next person and the sentence can be said only once. The last person will say the sentence out loud. If the sentence is the same with the one written on the card, that group wins.

Game 2: Match and Catch the Riddle

Aim: Reading silently, reading aloud, pronouncing segmental and suprasegmental features correctly, listening selectively, grammar (simple present tense), linguistic and nonlinguistic reasoning.

Notes:1. Divide the class into two groups: The QUESTION group and the

ANSWER group.

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2. Give the questions to the first group and the answers to the other group.3. Each student in the first group is supposed to read the question he has

aloud and whoever has the answer in the other group reads the answer aloud.

4. If the question and the answer match, put the students in pairs. If they don't, continue till the right answer is found. Each student can read his part only twice. When all questions and answers are matched ask the pairs to read the riddle they have just for fun.

Some Suggested RiddlesQUESTIONS ANSWERS

What animal is gray and has a trunk? A mouse going on vacation

What animal eats and drinks with its tail?All do. No animal takes off its tail when eating or drinking.

Why do mother kangaroos hate rainy days?Because then the children have to play inside.

How can you tell the difference between a can of chicken soup and a can of tomato soup?

Read the label.

Why is an eye doctor like a teacher? They both test the pupils.

Why did the cross-eyed teacher lose his job? Because he could not control his pupils.

Why is mayonnaise never ready? Because it is always dressing.Do you know the story about the skunk? Never mind, it stinks.If a papa bull eats three bales of hay and a baby bull eats one bale, how much hay will a mama bull eat?

Nothing. There is no such thing as a mama bull.

What does an envelope say when you lick it? Nothing. It just shuts up.Why do cows wear bells? Because their horns don't work.Why shouldn't you believe a person in bed? Because he is lying.What is the best way to prevent milk from turning sour? Leave it in the cow.

Why does a dog wag his tail?Because no one else will wag it for him.

Game 3: Crazy Story

Aim: Writing, reading aloud, listening, grammar (simple past tense, reported speech)

Notes:1. Prepare sheets of paper with six columns which bear the following titles at

the top WHO?

(a man's name)

WHOM?

(a woman's name)

WHERE? WHAT DID HE SAY? WHAT DID SHE SAY? WHAT DID THEY DO?

2. Divide the class into groups of 6. Give each group one sheet of paper. Ask the first student to write under the first part and fold the paper so as to cover what he has written. Tell the student to pass the paper onto the next person. As each person writes, he should only look at his fold. When all

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students finish, one student from each group will be asked to read their story in the following format. You can write the format on the blackboard.

............. met ............... in/at .............. He said .............................................. She said ............................................. And so they ..........................................

Game 4: Missing Headlines

Aim: Reading silently, reading for specific information, speaking (discussing in pairs).

Notes:1. Cut out news items and their headlines from a newspaper. Paste the news

and headlines on separate sheets of paper. Photocopy them.2. Ask students to work in pairs. Give each pair the photocopies of the news

and headlines.3. Ask them to match the headlines with the news items.

Game 5: Find the Differences

Aim: Speaking (describing people and actions), listening, grammar (there is/are....., s/he has ......., s/he is .......ing, s/he is + adjective)

Notes:1. Find or draw two pictures which are the same except for seven features.

Photocopy them on separate sheets of paper.2. Ask students to work in pairs. Give one copy of each picture to the pairs.

The pairs are not supposed to show their copies to each other. Partner A's will describe their copy and Partner B's will listen carefully and examine their own copy to find the differences. They can ask questions if they require more detailed information or need any clarification. The pair that finishes first wins the game.

Game 6: The Secret Code

Aim: Spelling, guessing by using linguistic clues, reading. Notes:

1. Ask students to work individually. Give each student a sheet of paper which has the secret code on it. Tell them to translate it into English.

2. Clue: the first word is 'the'; the most frequently used word in English.3. When they finish, ask them to write a secret message of their own to their

friend. They can use the same symbols. If they need new symbols, they can create their own.

Æ#· Æ¶¢·ÉÓ #OÉÄ ÉÄ*=·Æ#¶?¢ ¶?

#¶ÉÄ #O?Ü§ ÉÄ. Å?#OÆ ¶ÉÄ ¶Æ?

Conclusion

Games are highly motivating because they are amusing and interesting. They can be used to give practice in all language skills and be used to practice many types of communication. The aim of this paper was to demonstrate some sample games. Teachers are encouraged to find other games which are suitable for his/her studenets or develop his/her own.

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Conversation QuestionsAbout the United States

A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom.

Related: Moving to the United States, United States Geography, United States Leadership, United States

Have you ever visited the United States?o If not, would you like to visit this country?

Where have you been in the United States?o Where would you like to go in the USA and what would you like to see?

Why? What do you know about New York City?

o Washington, D.C.?o Los Angeles?o Other cities?

What do you know about Oregon?o California?o Florida?o Texas?o Other states?

Have you ever met people from the U.S.?o What did you think about them?

When did Europeans first come to the Americas?o Who lived there before the Europeans came?o What has happened to the native people in the Americas?

Where do most Asians live in Canada?o In the United States?o Where do most people from your country live in the United States?o In Canada?o In Europe?

Do you know that Canada, the United States, and Mexico have a free trade agreement?

o Do you think this is largely positive or negative for these countries? Do you like Hollywood movies?

o What have you learned about the U.S. by watching Hollywood movies?o Do you think it's important for people in the world to see movies that come

from other places as well? Why? Who do you think was the best president in U.S. history? Why? Who do you think was the worst president in American history? Why? What are three things you admire about the USA. Why do you admire these

things? Do you think the world has anything to learn from the United States? What are three things you dislike about the USA?

o Why don't you like these things?o If you could change anything about the U.S., what would you like to

change? Do you think the USA will change in a more positive direction in the future? Why

or why not? What is your country's relationship with the United States these days? How can better relationships be created between countries in the world? How can people in the world build better relationships among themselves?

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Conversation QuestionsAccidents at Home


Related: Home, House Renovation

What is the most dangerous thing in your home? How can your home be made less dangerous?

What is the most dangerous thing in your home for a child? How can it be made less dangerous?

What is the most dangerous thing in your home for an elderly person? How can it be made less dangerous?

What dangers can be found in the kitchen that can cause accidents? What can be done to prevent kitchen accidents? What can a parent do to childproof a kitchen? What dangers can be found in bathrooms that can cause accidents? What can be done to prevent bathroom accidents? What can a parent do to childproof a bathroom? What dangers can be found outside the home in the yard that can cause

accidents? What can be done to prevent yard accidents? What can a parent do to childproof the yard? What other dangers can be found in a home in bedrooms, laundry rooms,

garages, and living areas? What can be done throughout the house to prevent accidents? What can a parent do to childproof the different rooms of the home? Where at home would you put your first aid kit?

o What would you have in it? Where are these items found in a house, why could they be dangerous, to whom

could they be dangerous, and what could someone do to lessen the danger they present?

o hot pan/poto hot curling irono knifeo windowo irono medicineso gasolineo poolo insecticideso natural gaso balconyo toiletso staircaseo stove/oveno stool/laddero yard toolso fireplaceo cellar /attico bathtubo bad dogo tall pieces of furnitureo swing set / playgroundo very clean glass sliding dooro electronic equipmento cleaning supplieso lake/retention pondo loose carpet on slippery tile floor

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o glass table or sharp edged tableo hairdryero bric-a-brac

What do you need to do if...o you cut your finger preparing food?o you fall down and can not move a limb?o your child drinks a poisonous liquid? (discuss syrup of ipecac)o the toilet is flooding the bathroom?o a pan on the stove is on fire?o a neighbor's dog is growling at you?o our child falls off a chair and is bleeding?

What is the phone number for the police? How do you call an ambulance? What is the phone number for poison control?

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Conversation QuestionsAdoption


What is adoption? Do you know anyone who was adopted as a child? Do you know anyone who has adopted a child? What are some of the reasons people choose to adopt? What is the difference between domestic and international adoption? What are the views of adoption in your country? How would someone interested in adopting a child go about doing so? Where do children available for adoption come from? What happens to children that are not adopted? How do you go about adopting a child? Would you want to adopt a boy or a girl? Why? Do you think brothers and sisters should be separated in adoptions? Are adoptions common in your country? What are some organizations that help with adoptions? Should you tell the child that he or she was adopted? If so at what age? Or

when? Should adopted children have the right to know their biological parents? Should families with birth children also adopt? Is the real parent the birth parent or the adoptive parent? Should adoptions be between children and families of the same race and or

culture? How or should the adoptive parents maintain the adopted child's cultural identify? In your country are the legal rights of an adoptive child different from that of a

birth child? What are the legal consequences of adopting a child from a different race or

country? Why don't more people adopt children? What makes a family, genetics or environment? Do you support an open adoption policy where the birth parents can choose to

be involved in the child's life? Do you believe there is discrimination within the adoption organizations? Do you think a person should be able to adopt a child of a different race? Should a gay or lesbian couple be allowed to adopt a child? Should there be an age restriction for the adoptive parents? Should a single man or woman be able to adopt a child? If you were to find out that you were adopted and not really from the country

where you are a citizen, which nationality would you hope would be your true mother country? Why?

When is the right time for a child to be told that he/she was adopted? Do you think it is preferable to adopt or to use artificial reproduction technology? Would you agree to an open adoption or closed adoption? Why? What is an open adoption? Would you want to find your birth family? Why or why not? Should prospective parents in adoption cases be required to do a parenting

course? Are there any risks when adopting a child? Do you think biological parents should always have a right to keep their identity

secret from the children they give up for adoption? Why or why not? Do you think people who have been adopted should always have the right to find

out who their birth-parents are? How would you feel if a child you had adopted wanted to search for his or her

birth parents? Do you think that adopted children should feel especially loved and wanted?

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Should people be allowed to adopt children of a different race and/or culture?o What are some good points and bad points of this kind of adoption?

How would you feel if you found out you were adopted?o What would you do?

Do you it is preferable to adopt or to use artificial reproduction technology? If you had a choice, would you want to be adopted? Should people be allowed to adopt children of a different race and/or culture?

What are some good points and bad points of this kind of adoption? How would you feel if you found out you were adopted? What would you do?

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Conversation QuestionsAdvertising


What is the most shocking advertisement you have seen? What is the funniest advertisement you have seen? Describe it. What makes an ad memorable? What are the different types of advertising? (Eg. TV) What types of companies choose each type? Do you buy products because of advertising? Do you find advertising persuasive? Why do you buy one product over another? Should advertisers be allowed to advertise to children? Should alcohol or tobacco companies be allowed to advertise? Why or why not? What do you think of celebrity endorsements? Which celebrities advertise which products? Do favorite or annoying celebrities make you want or not want to buy a product? Should there be advertisement-free zones? Is there truth in advertising? What kind of advertisements attract your attention? Why is it necessary to advertise? Do you think advertising should be allowed to interrupt TV or radio programs?

What are the alternatives? What is the best way to advertise to children? Adults? Seniors? etc.. Do you think advertising is too expensive? What are some effective adverts you have seen lately (on TV, newspaper, etc)? What are some ineffective adverts you have seen lately? Can you remember an advertising campaign that caught your attention? What are the different methods of advertising? What is the most popular way of advertising? Do you think that the Internet and cable/satellite TV have become more important

than national TV for advertising products? What do you think is the best way of discovering the tastes and interests of

teenage consumers? Can TV advertising be a force for good? How easy do you think it is to influence children with advertising? Do you agree with anti-consumerism organizations that the child will have

watched 350,000 commercials by the time she graduates from high school? Do you think the government has he right to ban advertising for junk food and

soda during children's TV programs. What do you think about this? Why do you think they made this decision?

Do political parties in (country) use TV advertising? If so, should they? When out walking or shopping in the city, do you accept advertising fliers or free

samples that are offered to you? What forms of advertising are there? What would make an advertisement more interesting? Can you buy something and get something for free in your country? Do people use coupons where you live? What is the most advertised product in your country? What is the best form of advertising? What gets you interested in an advertisement? Describe an advertisement that you have seen or heard on the TV or radio. What

was it about? How long did the commercial last? Did it make you want to buy the product?

What is the funniest commercial that you have seen? Describe it. What differences can you notice between commercials from 10 or 15 years ago

and commercials today?

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Do you think ads influence the choices you make when you buy clothes? Do you often buy a particular brand when you buy clothes? Why do you buy this brand? Does it give status to wear particular brands like Nike or Lacoste? Do you sometimes want very expensive things which you or your parents can't

afford? Do you think ads influence the choices you make when you or your parents buy

food? What brand is the ketchup you or your parents buy? Is it always the same brand? Why do you prefer this brand? What brand is the toothpaste you or your parents buy? Can you name three different ways of advertising? (For example, different media) Do you think there are too many ads in television? Why/why not? Do you know why some channels have ads and others not? If you do know

explain. Do you think there are too many ads in magazines? Why/why not? Do you think there are too many ads in newspapers? Why/why not? Think of an ad you think is good or funny and tell about it. What kinds of ads do you like and why? What makes a good ad? Do you think children or young people are easier to influence through ads

compared to adults? Do you think it's ok to show ads aimed at children on television? Why/ why not? When you watch TV, how much attention do you pay to the advertisements? Which advertisements do you like most and which least? Why? How would you advertise something you wanted to sell? What are the harmful and the beneficial effects of advertising? Do you think that ads create a desire for more and more material possessions? Do you think that commercials on TV are annoying because they interrupt

programs or do you think that many ads are more amusing that the programs on TV?

Do you think advertising is too expensive? What are the different methods of advertising?

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Conversation QuestionsAfter a Vacation


Related: Holidays, Travel

Did you enjoy your last vacation? (How was your vacation?) How do you feel after a long vacation? How many days was your vacation? How much money did you spend on your last vacation? Did you encounter any problems during your vacation?

o How did you resolve them? Did you have a part-time job during the holidays? Did you have any bad experiences? Did you meet any interesting people? Cn you tell me about them. Did you notice any cross-cultural differences during your vacation? Did you study during the vacation? If so, what did you study? How was your trip?

o Why did you visit the place(s) you went to?o How did you get there?o Why did you choose the means of transportation that you chose?o How much luggage did you take?o Would you take the same or different equipment next time?

In what ways did you obtain real satisfaction when you were on vacation? Was the place you went to very different from where you live?

o What were the women like?o What were the men like?o Were people friendly?o Did you stay in a hotel?o What was the daily rate?

What historical sites did you visit and what did you learn? What interesting people did you meet? Tell me about them. What souvenirs did you buy? What was the best food you ate during your vacation? What was the most enjoyable thing that you did during your vacation? What was the most interesting thing that you did during the vacation? What was the most interesting thing you did during the holiday? Where did you go for your last vacation?

o Did people speak English there?o Did you have any problems?o Did you use a lot of English?o How did you get there?o How long did it take to get there?o How long were you there?o How much money did you spend?o What did you do there?o What did you see in each place?o What kind of food did you eat?o What souvenirs did you buy?o What was the activity you enjoyed the most, and why?o What was the weather/food/scenery like?o What were the people/restaurants/scenic spots like?o Where did you stay?o Where did you visit?o Where would you like to go next?o Who did you travel with?

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o Would you recommend your friends visit there, why or why not? Where did you go? How long did you stay? How did you get there? Where is your favorite place to go on vacation? Where in the world would you most like to go for your next vacation? Of all the places you visited, which would you recommend to your friends? How do you get to sleep when you are traveling on a plane? How far was it to the beaches, to the nearest town, village etc.? How long did it take you to get there? What sort of condition was the hotel in? Did the room overlook the sea? Did you have a nice view from your room? Have you ever run out of money when you are on holidays? Who is the most remarkable person you have ever met on holiday? How would you feel if there weren't any holidays? Have you ever been mugged while on vacation? What is the most exotic or strangest thing you ate on holiday? Have you ever thought of giving up your holiday due to unavoidable reasons?

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Conversation QuestionsAge: Youth & Old Age


Related: Nursing Homes and Retirement Communities, Retirement, Disabilities and Handicaps

Are young people generally more selfish than their parents and grandparents?o Does age make you more aware of and caring for others?

Should adults try to teach young people lessons, such as the dangers of drinking too much, taking drugs or catch the AIDS virus, or should they leave them alone to find out about these things themselves?

o What are the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches? What do you think is the best age to be?

o Explain your opinion. Most countries give young people rights as they reach a certain age. For

example, British people can legally make love or fight for their country at the age of 16; they can drink, vote and drive a car when they are 18.

o Do you think that any of the age limits need changing? Some people think you should give something to society before you have the

right to join it.o Should young people have to do some form of military or community

service by law? Should people of between 50 and 55 be forced to retire from their jobs in order to

make way for younger workers? If people are still able to (and want to) work, should they have to retire when the

reach a certain age?o Explain your opinion.

In most countries the legal retirement age for men is five years older than for women, even though women live longer than men on average.

o Why do you think this is?o Is this fair, or should it be changed?

Are there many things that the old can teach the young or are they hopelessly out of touch by the time they reach a certain age?

o What things were you taught by your older family members?o How have they been useful to you in your life?

In most countries, compulsory education is targeted at five to sixteen year olds.o Would it be better to offer it to pensioners who want to learn rather than

young people who prefer not to be in school? Explain your opinion. In Russia, China and many other countries, there is a tradition of choosing

leaders who are quite advanced in years.o Do you think that older people make better leaders? Explain your opinion.

One of Britain's best-ever leaders was William Pitt, who became Prime Minister when he was 24 and remained in power for 18 years.

o Could this ever happen in your country? Why/why not? Many elderly people have disabilities which limit their mobility.

o Do buses, shops and public buildings in your country provide easy access for the disabled or are your towns and cities designed mainly for the young and able-bodied? Why is this?

Should the elderly be expected to pay for residential care out of their own savings or should appropriate accommodation and nursing be provided by the tax payer? Explain your opinion.

Some people say that men age better than women, and remain attractive longer. Do you agree? Explain your opinion.

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Some people say that men never grow up, they just get bigger. Do you agree? Explain your opinion.

Some people say that young women are usually two to three years more mature than young men. Do you agree? Explain your opinion.

In most countries women live an average of five to six years longer than men. Why do you think this is?

In some countries having children is considered a way of "investing in the future", and young people are expected to give money to their parents when they get a job, and then to care for them when they retire.

o What are the good points and what are the bad points about this system? Many countries are facing the problem of an "aging population", i.e. there will

soon be more old people than young people.o What problems will this cause?o What can be done to prepare for them?

What do you think is the ideal age for each of these stages of your life: (Explain your opinion.)

What age do you want to live to? How do you feel about your parents growing older? If your parents could no longer care for themselves, would you let them live with

you or put them in a nursing home? Are you afraid of getting old? What is your ideal old age to live to? Do you prefer to live in the retirement home or live with young people? Should parents continue to finance their children after the children are 18? Where do you wish to live when you are old? Where do you see yourself when you are 70 years old? Should older people spend their money on themselves, or save it for their

children to have after they die? Where do you wish to live when you are old? What advice would you give to an older person who wants to feel young? Some people say that youth is a state of mind, do you agree?

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Conversation QuestionsAirplanes


How old were you when you went on your first flight?o Where did you go?

Do you like to travel by airplane? What was the longest flight you have ever taken? What seat do you prefer: window, center or aisle? What are three things you're supposed to do before the flight takes off? What do you like to do during the flight?

o Does the plane provide anything to do to pass the time? What are some movies you remember seeing on the plane? What do you do when you experience turbulence? Have you ever met anyone or established any relationships during a flight? What should be done with obese people who practically take up two seats? Can you sleep during the flight? Have you ever seen a female pilot?

o Why do you think that most pilots are men? Would you like to be a flight attendant?

o What are the benefits and /or downfalls? Are most flight attendants female?

o Is being a flight attendant considered a good job in your country?

What do you think are the qualifications?

Are planes really safer than cars? ( A British study shows that flying is 176 times safer than walking, 15 times safer than driving and 300 times safer than a motorbike.)

Would you rather have a younger, more beautiful/handsome flight attendant or an older, more experienced one?

What are the advantages of traveling by airplane?o What are the disadvantages?

Do you know someone who is afraid of flying in an airplane? What questions should you ask when buying airplane tickets? What is a group rate? What is a charter flight? What arrangements should you make for pick-up at the airport? What things can you see in an airport? What questions do they ask you when you check-in at the airport? What questions do they ask you when going through immigration and customs at

the airport? Have you ever seen an airplane crash? Have you ever seen terrorists on the plane? Have you ever met an annoying person during a flight? Have you ever had an accident during a flight? Have you ever work as a flight attendant? Do you only fly one airline? Do you think budget airlines are safe? Do you like to fly? Why or why not? What is the smallest airplane you have ever been on? How small was it? Do you prefer to fly in big planes or small planes? Why? Would you like to learn how to fly? Why or why not? Do you think being a pilot is a good job? Why or why not? Have you ever gone sky-diving? Why or why not?

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Have you or someone you know ever been in a plane crash? What would you do if you were on a plane that was crashing? Do you like to watch movies or TV about airplane crashes? Why or why not? Do you enjoy the foods on airplane? What arrangements should you make for pick-up at the airport? What things do you see in an airport? What questions do they ask when you check-in at the airport? What questions do they ask when going through immigration/customs at the

airport? How much baggage do you take with you? What items should not be included in your hand baggage? What documents do you need for international travel? What airline do you prefer using? How was the service on your last flight? Do you like airline food? Would you pay money for airline food? Do you enjoy talking with strangers on an airplane? Do you enjoy takeoff / landing? What are some airplane disaster movies?

o Why do you think they are popular? How do the pilot and the co-pilot navigate their planes? What is a boarding pass? When do you pay for airport tax? Where can you hang your coats after boarding an airplane? 5. What do you do

when you get blocked ears during take off / landing? What do you do before take off / landing? Where can you smoke while traveling by plane? What do you do when you need a flight attendant's assistance? How can passengers reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis?

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Conversation QuestionsAmusement Parks


Have you ever visited an amusement park?o If so, what was it called?o Where was it?

What has been the best amusement park you have ever visited? Why? What was your favorite ride or activity? Why? What was your worst ride or activity? Why?

o Was it expensive? If you were to recommend an amusement park, which one would you

recommend and why? What rides or activities would you recommend? How regularly do you visit amusement parks? Can you think of an amusement park ride or activity that would be both enjoyable

and popular? Are you afraid of going on scary amusement park rides? Do you know of anybody who hurt themselves or died at an amusement park? Even though you may have been terrified by a particular ride, would you go on it

again? What are some famous amusement parks near where you live?

o Have you been to them?o How much does it cost to enter?o What rides is this amusement park famous for?

Do you have any plans to go to an amusement park in the near future?

Conversation QuestionsAnger


What causes anger? Are there different types of anger? What are various ways people respond to anger? Is anger ever justified? If so, how can we determine whether it is? Is anger ever a good thing? If so, when? Why? Is anger ever a bad thing? If so, when? Why? Are there better and worse ways to respond to one's own anger? How do you decide what to do when you get angry? Do you think men and women show their angry differently? What makes you angry? When was the last time you got angry?

o Tell us about it. What do you usually do when you get angry? What are the situations that make you angry? What are the physical effects of getting angry? (e.g blood pressure...) Is getting angry an effective way of dealing with problems?

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Conversation QuestionsAnimals & Pets


Related: Dogs and Cats

Selected Questions

o Do you have a pet?o How old is it?o Where did you get it from?o Who takes care of it?o What does it look like (color, breed, etc.)?o What do you feed it?o Do you play with it?o What is it's name? How did you choose this name?o Does it know any tricks or understand any words?o If you don't have a pet, why not?o Would you ever consider getting a pet?o Did you grow up with pets in your home?o What are the pros and cons of keeping a pet?o What is the best pet to own?o What are some animals that live in your country?o Are there animal rights groups where you live?o Are you afraid of snakes? What is the biggest snake you have seen? Are there

any poisonous snakes in your country?o Are you frightened of spiders? What do you do if you see one?o Can you name some endangered species?o Have you ever ridden a horse?o Are there birds or squirrels in your neighborhood?o Do you know someone who owns an unusual pet?o Do you think it is acceptable to test cosmetics on animals?o How do you feel about the use of animals for medical research?o Do you think it is okay to eat meat? Do you know any vegetarians?o Is there any kind of meat you would not eat?o What kind of meats have you eaten?o Have you ever been to a zoo?o Are there laws about hunting in your country?o What do you think of hunting? Would you eat an animal that you killed yourself?o Do you think it's okay to free animals that have been in captivity all their lives?

Why or why not?o Do you think people should buy and wear fur coats?o Do you think that animals dream?o Have you ever been bitten by a dog? Have you been stung by a bee?o Have you ever been to a farm? What animals did you see there?o Have you ever been to a horse race?o Have you ever eaten rabbit meat? Have you eaten octopus?o Have you ever seen a dog that helps people, such as one to assist a blind

person or a policeman?o If so, what did you notice about the dog?o How do you think that dog was trained?o What animals do you think are cute?o What animals do you think are ugly?o What can children learn by having a pet?

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o What is the largest animal you have ever seen?o Why do some people not like pets?o What can people learn from animals?o Does feeding an animal bring you happiness?o If you saw a stranger drowning, and you also saw your pet drowning, and you

could only save one, who would you save? What would most people choose?o Can people be too attached to their pets?o Do you think animals have souls?

More Questions

o Do you think it is right to keep wild animals in captivity all there lifeo Is it morally right to spend a lot of money on pets, rather than helping people in

need?o Why are pets, not people used for medical research?o What is your favorite animal?o Have you ever had a pet?o What kind of pet would you like to have in the future?o Have you ever been to the zoo? What animals did you see there?o Have you ever been on a farm? What animals did you see there?o Do you ever bird watch?o Do you think people should wear fur coats?o Should animals be kept in a zoo?o Do you know any endangered species?o Do you consider yourself an animal lover?o Do bats help people?o What animal is liked to be petted?o Do you think the most important thing by which psychopaths can be recognized

is their attitude toward animals? Explain why.o Do you think it is a good pattern in general to judge people by their attitude

toward animals? Explain why.o What kind of animals do humans ride?o Are you afraid of snakes?o Are you frightened of spiders?o Are your pet(s) healthy?o Can you ride a horse?o Do you ever go bird watching?o Do you ever talk to your pet? If so, what do you say?o Do you have a cat?o Do you have a dog? If so, what's your dog's name?o Do you have any pets?

If not, would you like to have a pet? Have you ever had a pet?

o Do you know anyone who has a horse?o Do you know anyone who keeps their dog in their house?o Do you love your pet?o Do you prefer dogs or cats?o Do you talk to your pet sometimes?o Do you think it is acceptable to test cosmetics on animals?

How do you feel about the use of animals for medical research?o Do you think it is okay to eat meat?

Is there any kind of meat you would not eat?o Do you think it is right to keep wild animals in a zoo?o Do you think that animals dream?o Do your pets have special behavior problems?

How do you deal with those problems?o Have you ever been bitten by a dog?o Have you ever been bitten by a snake?o Have you ever been to a farm?o Have you ever been to a zoo? What animals did you see there?o Have you ever eaten rabbit meat?o Have you ever gambled on a horse race?o Have you ever given your pet a bath?o Have you ever had a pet? / Have you ever had any pets?o Have you ever ridden a horse? How about a camel?

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o Have you ever seen a bullfight?o Have you ever seen a dog race?o Have you ever seen a dog that helps people, such as one to help a blind person?

If so, what did you notice about the dog? How do you think that dog was trained? Have you ever seen a "therapy dog?"

o How long do you think a dog can live without food?o How many birds do you know that can't fly?o How many legs does a spider have? How about a squid?o How many national animal preserves do you have in your country?

Are there any animal preserves around here?o How many pets have you had?o How many pets have you raised and what are they?o How many zoos have you been to?o How much does it cost to keep your pet?o If you could be an animal, what would you (choose to) be? Why?o If you don't keep pets, please explain why?o Is is right to keep animals in a zoo?o Is it harmful for a dog to travel in cabin on a airline under the seat where your

carry-on bags go?o Pets are considered to be a burden to most of the city dwellers. To what extent

do you agree?o Some people think that people shouldn't wear animal furs. Do you agree? Why or

why not?o Think of some people you know. Which animals do they resemble?o What animal do you think is the funniest?o What animal do you think is the strangest-looking?o What animal do you think makes the best pet? Why?o What animal would you like to be? (Which animal...?)o What animals are symbols of your country?o What animals are you afraid of? (...scared of?)o What animals do you think are cute?

What animal do you think is the cutest?o What animals do you think are scary?o What animals do you think is the most dangerous?o What are some popular pets?o What are the most popular pets in your country?o What are the pros and cons of keeping a pet?

(Why are there so many people who are willing to sacrifice their time and money to raise a pet?)

o What can children learn by having a pet?

What are some things a child can learn by having a pet?

o What do you think of animals being raised in captivity?o What is one of your favorite animals?

Why do you like it? Do you have one for a pet?

o What is the difference between a pet and a wild animal?o What is the most unusual pet you have ever seen?o What is your favorite animal?

Why is it your favorite animal? Would you like keep it as your pet, why or why not?

o What joy does your pet bring you? Are you the one who takes care of it every day? How do you take care of it? If you don't take care of it, who does?

o What kind of animal would you like to be?o Do bats make good pets?o What animals like to be petted?o What kind of dog do you have?o What kind of master would you like to have if you were a pet?o What particular animals have become famous in your country for some special

skill or accomplishment?o What wild animals can you see around here?o When was the last time you went to a zoo?

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o Where is the nearest zoo to your house? How often do you visit that zoo? When was the last time you went there? How much does it cost to get in?

o Why do people have pets? / Why do people keep pets?o Would you recommend that others keep pets similar to yours?o Should we feed our pets unhealthy but tasty treats?

What's more important, their health or their happiness?o In your opinion, why do some people like to have unusual pets?o Do you think dogs should be banned or muzzled?o Would you want to see aggressive dogs muzzled or banned?o In your country, what kind of dog laws are there? If dogs are man's best friend,

as the saying goes, is banning dogs a friendly act?o What is a safari?

Would you go on a safari?o Have you ever hurt an animal?

Was it intentional or unintentional?o Do you know of any websites for people that want to keep animals as pets?

How about websites for people who are against animal rights? Do you think keeping an animal as a pet is a violation of that animal's

rights?o Do you know any animals that you think are being treated badly or unfairly?

If so, how do you think you can help?o What do you think would animals say about humans if they could make a

documentary movie about humans?o What is a breed?o What breeds can you name?o What does AKC stand for?o What is a standard for a dog breed?o What is dog intelligence?o Which dog breed do you think is the most intelligent and which the dumbest?o What is the role of an Alpha dog in a pack?o Do you think it is a good pattern in general to judge people by their attitude

toward animals? Explain why.o Do bats help people?

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Conversation QuestionsAnnoying Things


What annoys you about living where you live now? What annoys you about taking trains to work? What annoys you about driving a car? What annoys you most about living at home with your family? Do you think you have habits that annoy other people? Does it annoy you when people kiss in public? Do you get annoyed when someone cuts in front of you when you are waiting in line? What are some new pet peeves you have as a result of recent technology (i.e. cell

phone use)? What annoying habits does your best friend have? Does smoking bother you? Do you get annoyed when other people display bad manners? Give some examples. What is the most annoying thing for you? What is the most annoying thing about your partner? Do you annoy people with some of your habits? What is something that your parents do that annoy you? Can annoying someone be a good thing? If something is annoying you, what do you usually do? What are some things that annoy you that don't annoy your best friend? How do you change annoying habits What are some things that car drivers do that annoy you? Can you think of some things children do that annoy adults around them? What does pet peeve mean?

o What is your pet peeve? Does it annoy you when people don't use the right punctuation? What kind of people annoy you? Who is the most annoying person you know? Why? How do you inform someone they are being annoying Do you think other people find you annoying? Why? Who is the most annoying celebrity? Why? Which is more annoying, being caught in the rain without an umbrella, or finding out you

don't have enough money to pay for something you really need? Is there anything about your teacher that annoys you? What will you do about it? Does it annoy you when people don't use the right punctuation? Do you think it is annoying if people can't or don't speak your language? Which is more annoying, being caught in the rain without an umbrella, or finding out you

don't have enough money to pay for something you really need? Why do people get annoyed? Do bandaids on ladies feet annoy you? What's the most annoying thing about your partner? What's the most annoying catchphrase or cliche you can think of? Is it worse to be ignorant or annoying? What annoys you about yourself? What do people do on the subway that annoys you? What do people do on the bus that annoys you? What do people do on the street that annoys you?

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Does it annoy you when people snore?

Conversation QuestionsAre you good at...?


Are you good at climbing trees? Are you good at singing? Are you good at speaking English? Are you good at computer games? Are you good at playing the piano? Are you good at playing dodgeball? Are you good at playing basketball? Are you good at playing volleyball? Are you good at Tetris? Are you good at cooking noodles? Are you good at math? Are you good at telling jokes? Are you good at making people smile? Are you good at writing in your first language? Are you good at solving problems? Are you good at drawing pictures? Are you good at art? Are you good at music? Are you good at imitating others? Are you good at reading maps? Are you good at whistling? Are you good at remembering song lyrics? Are you good at fixing things? Are you good at sending text messages? Are you good at making new friends? Are you good at finding places? Are you good at playing the piano? Are you good at playing dodgeball? Are you good at cooking noodles? Are you good at playing volleyball? Is your father good at driving? Is your mother good at driving? Are you good at making pie? Are you good atEnglish? Are you good at cooking? Are you good at telling stories? Are you good at dancing the waltz? Are you good at remembering directions? Are you good at swimming? Are you good at driving a car?

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Conversation QuestionsArguing


Do you feel bad after you have an argument? What are some reason why people argue? What does your family argue about? How do you avoid arguments? Do you think it is best to argue or just walk away? Shy? Do you get along with argumentative people? Are you passionate about your beliefs? Do you ever try to impose your beliefs on others? Do you at times enjoy "playing the devil's advocate" (debating for the fun of it)? Do you get along argumentative people? Are you passionate about your beliefs? Would you describe yourself as an argumentative person? What other adjectives would you associate with an argumentative person? In your opinion is being argumentative a positive trait or a flaw? Are you easily persuaded in an argument? Do you ever try to impose your beliefs on others? Do you at times enjoy "playing the devil's advocate" (debating for the fun of it)? Have you ever taken part in a debate? Did you have to defend an opinion that wasn't

your own? If so, was it easy? Did it make you re-evaluate your own views? How do you feel when someone disagrees with everything you have to say? Do have a "butinski"in your family? Do you tend to but in? At work do you often voice your opinions on controversial issues? If so, what kind of

reception do get? Do you steer clear of some touchy topics or do you get a kick out of provoking others? How do you feel when you have a hunch someone's not paying attention to what you

have to say? Do you raise your voice? Do you get nasty? How do you grab someone's attention when you're making a point? What can you do to

lose it? Are hand gestures useful in an argument? Do you think it's disrespectful to argue with your elders? Do you often feel patronized in an argument? What do you say when someone is being condescending?

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Conversation QuestionsArt


Are you a good painter? Can you draw pictures well? Do you believe what art critics say? Do you consider yourself a good artist? Do you enjoy your art class at school? Do you like modern art? Do you like paintings? Do you like sketching? Do you like to visit art museums? Do you like wood carving? Do you prefer using water colors or oil paint? Do you think it is proper to call nude paintings art? Do you think music and dancing are forms of art? Do you think of cartoons and comics as art? Do you visit museums when you go to another city? Have you ever been to any famous art museums? Have you ever visited an art museum? What art form do you like best? What art museums have you visited?

o Which did you like the best? Why?o Which did you like the least? Why?

What famous painters do you know? What are they famous for? What is art? What is the longest time that you have spend on a painting? What is your favorite art web site? What would life be like without art? When was the last time you went to an art museum? Who are some famous artists in your country? Who is a famous potter in your country? Who is the most famous artist in your country? What kind of art does he do? Who is your favorite painter? Do you enjoy taking photographs? What things do you like to photograph?

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Do you consider photography an art form? Why do artist like to draw women's figures? Why do you enjoy art? Why is art important? Why do people become professional artists? Have you ever participated in any art competitions? Have you ever been jealous of someone else's artwork? Do you find Picasso's work astonishing or weird? Do you have a favorite painting?

o If so, what is it?o Why do you like it?

Do other people ever compliment your artwork? Do you have a sketchbook?

o If so, how often do you use it?o What kind of sketches do you make?

Do you feel proud after finishing a work of art? Do you think graffiti is art?

Do you agree with this statement? Graffiti is a form of art; a form of expressing one's mind.

Do you like to doodle?o What kinds of doodles do you make?o Where and when do you doodle?

Have you ever gone to an exhibition? Do you know any art galleries? Are there any in the place where you live? Were you interested in art when you were young? In your opinion, is design an important part of culture? Can you tell me the name of a fashion designer you know? Is design a great importance in your daily life? The famous artist and designer William Morris said that you should not have

nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful'. Discuss.

Do you know any art gallery? Is there any in the place where you live? Were you interested in art some years ago? and now? Have you studied any pictorial movement? Has design a great importance in your daily life Is your work figurative or abstract? What is your medium of choice? What influences your work? If you could buy a great work of art, what would it be? (style, title, artist's

name...) Do you think performance art should be considered art? What do you think of shock art? Have you ever seen performance art? Have you ever seen shock art? Does art imitate life? Are movies a form of art?

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Conversation QuestionsBags and Purses


Do you always carry a bag or purse?o What do you have in your bag or purse?o How heavy is your bag or purse? Have you lost it before?o Has it been stolen?

What do you usually carry with you? What things do you use every day? What things are important to carry with you? Do you always carry a bank card? Do you always carry money? How much money do you usually carry on you? Do men carry billfolds in your country? Do women carry a purse or handbag in your country? Is it a custom in your country for men to carry or hold the woman's purse or bag? Will guys hold their wife's and/or girlfriend's purse or bag where you live? Do men carry bags or purses in your country What if you see a guy carrying a purse or woman's bag, would you think he is gay? What do you think a president would carry on their person? What are essential (necessary) items to take with you when you leave the house?

Conversation QuestionsBaseball


Related: Basketball, Bullfighting, Sports

Have you ever played baseball? Do you know the rules of baseball? Do you like baseball? Are you interested in baseball? How many players are on a baseball team? What position do you think is the most difficult? Who is your favorite baseball player? Why do you like him? Does baseball look like a fun game to you? What qualities do you think of baseball player needs to be good? Do they have professional baseball teams in your country? How much does it cost to watch a professional baseball game? Would you rather watch baseball at a stadium or on television? What is your favorite baseball team? Why? Do you follow professional baseball? Are there any baseball players from your country playing in the USA? Do you think baseball will ever be a worldwide sport like soccer? What are the differences between baseball in America and baseball in your country? How much does it cost to attend a pro game in your country?

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What kinds of food are sold at baseball stadiums in your country? Does your country have a minor league? Do you think young players aspire to be a pro in their home country or make it to the

American Major Leagues? Are there recreational baseball teams in your country? Do children have easy access to baseball in your country? Do people play softball in your country? Are there women's baseball teams in your country? Do you consider baseball to be a slow game? Do you think the playoffs are more exciting than the regular season? Do you think baseball will ever be a worldwide sport like soccer? How does a kid make it to the pros?

Conversation QuestionsBasketball


Related: Baseball, Bullfighting, Sports

Are you interested in basketball? How many players are on a basketball team? What are the positions on a basketball team? How long is a basketball game? Who is your favorite basketball player? Why are basketball player usually tall? Can short people be good basketball players? Have you ever played basketball? How was it? Do you follow professional basketball? Have you ever been to a professional basketball game? Are there any basketball players from your country in the NBA? Describe the abilities that a good basketball player must have. What is needed to play basketball with your friends? What basketball teams do you follow? What is interesting about this team to you? What are the skills of your favorite basketball players? What is the difference between a basketball team and a basketball league? Who is number one star player now in the NBA? Do you like his style of playing? Why? Which parts of the body can players play the ball with? How many people can play in a game of basketball? When the ball goes out of bounds what happens? When the ball stuck between the ring and backboard, what happens? When a team scores a goal where is the ball placed for a restart? Which sports uses a court to play a game on? Which sports uses a field to play a game on? Who invented the indoor game which we call it basketball? In which years did James Naismith invent basketball? What nickname do Americans give to the ring of basketball? When the ball goes out of bounds, what should the referee do? When the violation occurs, what should a referee do? What is the height of the basket? Who was known as the greatest player in the world? In which city did the first basketball game play in 1891?

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Conversation QuestionsBeach


When was the last time you went to the beach? Where did you go? What do people do at the beach? Can you swim?

o When did you learn to swim?o Who taught you to swim?o What kind of swimming suit do you wear?

Have you ever been night-swimming? Are there any problems with jellyfish, sharks or stonefish at your local beach? Have you ever played sports on the beach?

o Which sports have you playedo ? How are they different from non-beach versions of the sport?

Have you ever collected seashells?o Can you describe a shell that you have collected?o What did you do with the shells that you collected?

What sort of animals live at the beach? Have you ever been fishing on the beach?

o What did you catch?o What did you use as bait?

What is the "tide"?o Why is there a tide?o What is a "rip tide"?

Have you ever been on a sail boat or a row boat? Have you ever used a surf board or body board? Do you like to suntan? Do you think sunblock is important? Have you ever been to a famous beach? What do you wear to the beach? How do you keep your wallet safe while you are swimming? Is erosion a problem at your local beach? Is pollution a problem at your local beach? Should people be able to own a beach or part of a beach? Why is beachfront land so expensive?

o Why do so many people want to live there?o Would you like to live there?o What are some dangers of living on beachfront property

Do you prefer a calm sea or do you prefer big waves? Should dogs be allowed on the beach?

o Should dogs have to be kept on leashes at the beach? Should cars be allowed on the beach? What do you think of people who swim in the nude? Is there a nude beach near where you live?

o What do you think about nude beaches?o Would you ever want to swim in the nude?o Have you ever gone to a nude beach?o What do you think of topless swimming?

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Which is your favorite beach? Are there life guards at the beaches in your country? Do you think that people should be allowed to drink beer or other drinks with alcohol on

the beach?

Conversation QuestionsBeauty and Physical Attractiveness


There is a related set of questions at http://iteslj.org/questions/clothes.html

Who do you think is the most beautiful person in your country? Who do you think is the most beautiful person alive today? Who was the most beautiful person in history? Who is the most attractive in your family? Does beauty affect one's success in life? Is it better to be physically attractive or intelligent? Is it better to be physically attractive or wealthy? Is beauty related to power?

o Can you think of anyone who is in a position of power that is not physically attractive?

Do people spend too much time and money on beauty? How much time should be spent on making yourself look better each day? Who would you say is beautiful that others maybe wouldn't? Do you think people should have cosmetic surgery to enhance their looks?

o If so what is the minimum age when someone should have plastic surgery?o How popular is plastic surgery in your country?o What is the most popular feature for cosmetic alteration?o Do you think self-esteem affects beauty?o Do you think beauty affects self-esteem?

How important is beauty in your daily life? Have you ever noticed anyone ever feeling pressured to be more beautiful? What do you think of the proverb, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder?"

o Do you have any proverbs or idioms from your country that relate to beauty? What do you think "beauty is skin deep" means? What are some beauty tips that you could share? Do you think people with many tattoos can be beautiful?

o How many tattoos is too many?o Would you ever get a tattoo?o Do you have a tattoo?

Do you think people with many piercings can be beautiful?o What kind of body piercing, if any, do you feel are acceptable?o What kind of piercing, if any, do you feel are unacceptable?

What personality trait is the most important for inner beauty? How do you define beauty, using your own words? Would you ever date someone who was not conventionally attractive? What makes one person more attractive than another? Do you think people from different countries than you see attractive the same way? Is there someone famous that is considered beautiful, that you think is not? Are beauty pageants good or bad? Should children be entered into beauty pageants? Do you think one gender or group worries more about beauty than another? Would you want your children to be beautiful or talented?

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What are some of the drawbacks of being beautiful? What do you think about plastic surgery?

o Would you ever have plastic surgery?o If so, what would you change?

What do you think of celebrities who get plastic surgery? Do you think it's necessary to have plastic surgery if you are famous in order to be

successful? Do you think skin color affects whether a person is regarded as beautiful or not? Do you think that fairer skin makes you more beautiful? What are some advantages of being beautiful? What makes someone beautiful in your country?

o What differs between that idea and the American idea of beauty? What do you think "beauty is skin deep" means? How many different adjectives can you think of to describe a beautiful woman or a

handsome man

What do these English expressions mean? Pretty is as pretty does.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Beauty is only skin deep.

What you see is what you get.

Conversation QuestionsBehavior


Related: Manners

What is good behavior? What is bad behavior? Were you well-behaved as a child?

o Why do some children seem naturally well-mannered, while others seem difficult?

o Were you a well-behaved child?o How do you raise well-behaved children?

What influences you to make good choices? Have you ever not tolerated someone's behavior?

o Is there any behavior that you would not find acceptable?o What are some examples of bad behavior?o What is he worst behavior you have seen?

Would you teach your child to "hit back" at school if somebody hit him? How can we teach our children good behavior? Are words or example more important? Are you influenced by what you see on TV? Or by what you read? Do friends influence you?

o Can you influence your friends?o Is it important to surround yourself with good people?o How can friends have a bad influence on you?

Can music influence your behavior? Is it important to only watch wholesome TV shows and only read good books? How has the media affected society? Has TV made society better or worse? How does religion influence people's behavior? Do you care what other people think of you? Do you care about the private behavior of a politician?

o Can you judge a politician by how he behaves toward his family?o Do you give up your private life when you become a politician?

Should people behave differently with friends than with family? Do you treat people who are close to you better than strangers, or vice versa?

Does the behavior of well-known people, such as celebrities and politicians, affect how average people behave?

Does economic status affect people's behavior? For example, are people more generous if they have more money?

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Who do you admire? Do you try to be like this person (or people)? Are there historical figures you admire? Who is affected by your behavior? In what ways have the choices of others affected you? Does your happiness depend on the behavior of others? Should you always be on your best behavior? Will we be judged for our behavior? Do you believe in a God who punishes bad people

and rewards good people? Does it always pay to be good? How do you act when you are happy? Do you like being around happy people? Should people act on their feelings? If you are in a bad mood, can people around you

tell? Do you believe we have a moral obligation to act happy, even if we do not feel happy? Is it possible to change one's behavior? Have you changed anything about your behavior?

o Have you started good habits?o Have you broken bad habits?o What are some ways to change your behavior?

Do you set goals to improve yourself? What behaviors are expected from children towards their parents? Do the clothes you wear affect your behavior? Should school teachers wear casual

clothes? What behaviors are expected from university and college students? Should corporal punishment be illegal? Are bad people bad because of circumstances or choices? What about good people? Do you think there is such a thing as an evil person, or just a sick person? Can bad behavior lead to crime? Should parents be held responsible for their children's behavior? What would you do if you saw somebody else's child behaving badly in public? Should some parent give medicine to their children to calm them down? Can you think of a behavior that is 'good' behavior in one culture and a 'bad' behavior in

another culture? How would you behave in a hospital? What is the strangest thing you have ever done? Should children be punished in public? What kind of punishment do you think is the most effective ? What does "misbehavior" mean? What can we do to prevent or discourage it Is there a behavior considered a 'good' behavior in one culture and a 'bad' behavior in another culture? If yes, give examples. Can we teach our children good behavior? How can we teach our children good behavior? How do children acquire good behavior? What would you do if your child behaves badly in public? What would you do if you saw somebody else's child behaves badly in public? Would you spank (To slap on the buttocks with a flat object or with the open hand, as for

punishment) your child for bad behavior? What would you do if you saw somebody spanking their child behaves for bad behavior? What should you do with a child who has very bad behavior? Would you teach your child to "hit back" at school if somebody hits them? How should we punish children who commit crimes? What behavior is not acceptable among friends? How should movie stars behave in public? Is it OK to show negative types of behavior when you are angry? What behaviors make you feel good? What behaviors make you feel angry? Should children be encouraged to ask questions in class? How can teachers stop "bullying" at school? Have you ever got embarrassed by your friend's/girlfriend's/husband's misbehavior? What is the right behavior to use in a job interview? How should you behave when you see someone you don't like? What is good behavior? What is the right behavior to use in a restaurant?

o At school?o At a party?

Can you think of a behavior that is 'good' behavior in one culture and a 'bad' behavior in another culture?

Can we teach our children good behavior?

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How can we teach our children good behavior? How do children acquire good behavior? Would you spank your child for bad behavior? What would you do if you saw somebody spanking their child for bad behavior? Is it acceptable for parents to spank their children?

Conversation QuestionsBirthdays


How are birthdays celebrated in your country? What are some birthday traditions you know of from other countries? How do you like to celebrate your birthday? What is your best birthday memory? What is your worst birthday memory? Have you ever had a surprise birthday party for yourself or someone else? What is the best birthday gift you have ever received? What is the worst birthday gift you have ever received? What are some things you like to do for your birthday? When is your birthday? Did your parents give you birthday parties when you were a child? In your opinion, What is the best time of year to have a birthday? How do people you know celebrate turning 40? Do you think getting older (40, 50, 60) is depressing for people, or a happy occasion? What do you think is the best age? Do you like going to work on your birthday? Did you like going to school on your birthday when you were a child? Have you ever had a surprise party? Whose birthday do you always remember? Among your close friends and relatives, whose birthday is coming up next? About how many birthday gifts or cards do you send or give to people each year? Have you ever forgotten someone's birthday that you should have remembered? Do you know any famous people's birthdays? (Are any the same as yours?) Do you know of any big events that happened the year you were born? What is the best birthday gift you have ever received? What is the best birthday gift you have ever given? What is the worst birthday gift you have ever received? What is the worst birthday gift you have ever given? If you are in your teen years, tell how old you will be in twenty years time and say

whether you look forward to that age or does it scare you. If you could celebrate your own birthday the way you wanted, what would you do?

o Where would you like to go?o How many people would you invite?

Would you rather celebrate your birthday with just your relatives or just your friends? Do you remember what gifts you received on your last birthday? What would you like to get most for your birthday this year? Is the cost of a present important to you? What kind of gift do you usually prepare for your friend's birthday?

o Your mother's?o What about for other family members?

Which is a better present, a well-chosen gift or money? Are birthdays really important? How do you celebrate your birthday?

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Conversation QuestionsBooks and Reading


What is your favorite story? Who is your favorite author? Who is your favorite character? What is your favorite genre?

o Actiono Mysteryo Suspenceo Detectiveo Science Fictiono Children's bookso Waro Non-fictiono Travel bookso Self-help bookso Historyo Biographyo Autobiographyo Gothico Classic Literatureo Modern Literature

What is the longest book you have ever read?o How long did it take you to read it?

Have you ever belonged to a book club?o What books did you read?

What is the funniest book you have ever read? The saddest?

o The strangest? How many books have you read in your life? Is there a time in your life when you read all the time? How many hours do you spend reading in a week? Have you ever been to a book signing or met an author? Do you have any ideas for a story for you to write? Do you read books based on recommendations? What are some of the books that were recommended to you? Were you ever given a bad recommendation? Did it change your opinion of the person who recommended the book? What books have you recommended for other people? How often do you go to the library? How many books do you check out at a time? How do you choose the books you are going to read? How important is the cover of the book. Do you watch the movie that came from a book? Most people say the book is better than the movie. Is this true for you?

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Did you enjoy reading books in school? What was your favorite book growing up? Is there a book that you have read more than once?

o What was the title?o How many times did you read it?

Is there a book you just couldn't finish?o What was the title?

What is your favorite time of day for reading? Where is your favorite place to read? Do you listen to music while you read? Do you often read book before go to bed? What factors are important to you when choosing a book to read?

o Reviews?o A Recommendation from a friend?o The front cover?

What was the last book that you read? What is your favorite book of all time? Have you ever read a book and then watched the movie? Which was better? Why? Who is the most famous writer from your country?

o Have you read any of their books?o Do you think that they are overrated?

What genre of book do you enjoy most? Have you ever tried to read a book in English? Do you think that it is more valuable to read a book than to watch television? Have you ever lent books to your friends and never got them back? Do you think that the internet and television will eventually make books obsolete?

Conversation QuestionsBusiness


Could I ask you some questions about your business? When did you start your business? Are you only a service provider? Do you have any service expansion plan? Do you have international presence? Do you think recession is affecting your business? What is the strength of your employees? Do you have any challenge in manpower retention? Who is taking care of your human resources department? What is so special about your business? How do you motivate your employees? Do you provide transport facility to employees? Do you have any play ground / gym in your company? Do you take of everything personally? Do you have any program like employee of the month or employee of the year? How many branches do you have in overseas? What one quality in your people really affect your business? Will you give any special benefit to your employees? How often do you travel abroad? Do you really believe in innovation? Where from do you get inspiration for growth? Do you think every company should prepare budget for income and expenses? What is the governing principal of your business? Do you take any assistance for technology improvement? Do you think technology is must to grow your business? Do you invite outside consultants to train your people? What do you feel about growth of your company? Do you want to give any message to the people? What one thing can transform business to a higher level?

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Conversation QuestionsCars and Driving


How old were you when you first learned to drive?o Was there anything difficult about learning to drive?

Can you drive a car? Can you drive a manual shift car? Do you have a car? If so, what kind of car do you have?

o Is it a standard (manual shift) or automatic shift?o Which do you like best, a standard or automatic shift car?

What are the advantages of owning a car? What are the disadvantages of owning a car? Are you a good driver? Have you ever been in a car accident? Have you ever been pulled over by the police?

o What happened? Have you ever driven a car in a foreign country?

o If yes, which side of the road did they drive on?o Were the road signs different?

Are the drivers in your area where you live good drivers? Do you know anything about repairing or maintaining a car?

o What do you know how to do?o Where did you learn how to do this?

Do you enjoy repairing cars?o What are some things you do to maintain your car?

Do you prefer driving or riding public transportation? What kind of car do you prefer? Do you like drive at night? Do you think cars should be banned from city centers? What side of the road do you drive in your country? Is drunk driving a problem in your country? What kind of laws does your country have about drunk driving? What is the penalty for drunk driving in your country? Have you ever been (or) do you know anyone who has been in an accident related to

drunk driving? Is jaywalking legal in your country? Do people often jaywalk in your country? Who taught you to drive? How long did it take you to learn to drive? What is the longest trip you have ever taken by car? Have you ever broken down and been stranded on the side of the road?

o Who helped you? How do American drivers compare to drivers in your country?

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What are the speed limits in your country? On what occasions do you honk your car horn? Is it acceptable to honk in your country Are men better drivers than women? Are women better drivers than men? At what age can you get a licence in your country? Do you think the age for driving should be raised or lowered? Do you think driving lessons should be provided by high schools? Should new drivers have a period of accompanied driving?

o Or some kind of trial period? Do you have a GPS (Global Position System)?

o What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a GPS? Does the type of car a person drives tell us about the person who drives it? What can we tell or imagine about a person by looking at the car they drive? What are the laws about seat belts in your country?

o How are they different to this country? Is your car air conditioned?

o What are the advantages and disadvantages of air conditioning? Do you have a GPS?

o If yes, when do you use it? If no, would you like one? Why or why not? What is the price of gasoline in your country?

o Is it cheaper or more expensive than in this country? Do you allow passengers to eat inside your car? What are the advantages/disadvantages of buying a second-hand car? Do you wash your car yourself or do you have it washed? Do you think that there is a relation between global warming and cars? Have you ever seen a "hybrid" car? What do you know about "hybrid" cars? Do you really think that car manufacturers are interested in global warming? How often do you need to get your car repaired? On what occasions do you honk your car horn?

o Is it acceptable to honk in your country? Do you like to drive or be driven? Have you ever bribed a policeman in your country after he pulled you over? Is it common for traffic cops to accept bribes? How are the traffic laws in your country?

o Are they strict or lax? Do most people follow the rules of the road? Is it easy to find parking? Is parking expensive? What should be done in order to prevent traffic congestion in your city? Is there any kind of rules to avoid traffic congestions? How do you feel about spending time in your car during rush hour? Is car theft a big problem in your country? Have you had your car stolen? Have you had your radio stolen? Is road side assistance common in your country? Can you change a flat tire? Do you know anything about fixing a car? Who taught you to drive?

o Was it pleasant or unpleasant? Have you ever broken down and been stuck on the side of the road?

o Who helped you? What do you think of international car-free days? Can you recall any memorable car drive in your life? What are the most frequent driving offenses? What factors are responsible for railway crossing accidents? According to insurance statistics women are better driver than men.

o Do you agree? What do you think of car pooling?

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Conversation QuestionsCelebrities


Have you ever seen a celebrity in person? What did you do? Which celebrity would you like to meet? What would you do if you could spend a day

with this person? Do you think famous people have the right to have a private life? Do you think it's moral to sell your private life to the media? Do you approve of people who become famous as a consequence of appearing again

and again in the media and not because of having an artistic career? What do you think of the paparazzi? Why do you think there is such a high demand for gossip magazines and gossip TV

programs? What are the pros and cons of being a celebrity? What do you think of fans and fan-clubs ? Did you have any heroes when you were a teenager? Why do you think adolescents need to have heroes? Do you think being a celebrity automatically means the person is intelligent? Do you think that there are times when the common man has an edge over a celebrity? If you could influence people like a celebrity does, how would you use it for the benefit of

the planet? Which celebrity do you most admire and why ? Would you like to be famous ? Why or why not ? Do you think there is a relationship between beauty and celebrity ? Can you name some famous people? Do you know someone famous? Would you like to be famous? Why? Are famous people happy? Would you like to be a celebrity? Would you like to be a celebrity? Why would you be famous? If you were a celebrity, would you take advantage of it to date some fans? Should celebrities be role models? Do you think being a celebrity automatically means the person is intelligent? Why? Why

not? Do you think celebrities write their own music? Can you give some examples of when the common man has an edge over a celebrity? What do you think of celebrities championing a cause? (e.g. - a cure for AIDS) Do you think that some celebrities earn much more money than they deserve taking into

consideration what they produce?

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Conversation QuestionsChildhood


Related: Childbirth, Children

Did you have a happy childhood? What did you like to do when you were a child? What did you look like? Where were you born? When were you born? How old were you when you learned to ride a bicycle?

o Did you have your own bicycle?o Do you remember who taught you to ride a bicycle?o Did you have a bad bicycle accident?

Who was your favorite teacher? Why? What was your favorite subject? Why? What was your favorite game?

o Who did you play it with?o Who gave it to you?o When did you like to play it?

Do you remember anything about your personality when a child? Were you good at making friends?

o How did you make friends?o Did you have a lot of friends?o What did you enjoy doing with your friends?

What were some embarrassing situations when you were a child? Were you a good student?

o Did you enjoy going to school?o Did you get good grades?o Did you enjoy doing your homework?

What did you like about school? What didn't you like about school? Who was your best friend?

o How did you meet this friend?o What did you do together?o Do you still do things with this childhood friend?o What other things can you tell us about your best friend?

Were your parents super protective?o At what age could you go places by yourself?o Did your parents always tell you what to do?

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Did you play outside?o What did you like to play?o How long did you play outside a day?o Could you play outside all year long?

Did you play on the streets?o Was it dangerous to play in the streets?o What kind of things did you do in the streets?o Did you ever have an accident while playing in the streets? What happened?

When you were a child, what did you want to grow up to be? Did you want to be a mother or father? A firefighter? A doctor? A scientist?

Can you remember specific things from your childhood clearly?o How old were you at the time of your first memories?

What kind of food did your like?o Did you used to eat anything or were you a picky eater?o What foods did you like eating?o What foods didn't you like to eat?o Did you have any foods you hated?

What was your favorite toy when you were a child?o Who gave you this toy?o Did it have a name?o Do you still have it?

What was your worst punishment as a child? Where did you grow up? Did you move frequently? If so, why? Who took care of you when you were little? A parent? A grandparent? A nanny? A

daycare center? How are you similar to your parents? How are you different? Describe the first memory you have of going to school. Do you think children today eat too much fast food and don't play enough sports? What childhood diseases did you have? Did you have any nickname? Tell us about it. Were you afraid of anything? What? What were your favorite cartoons and TV shows?

Sentences

When playing a game...o You always wanted to win and if you didn't you cried.o You changed the rules just to win.o You stopped playing if you were losing.

When sharing your stuff...o You never lent anything but you wanted to borrow things from the others.o You lent your stuff but you also had to borrow from the others.o You lent things to the other children and they never lent you anything.

On your birthday, you'd like to receive...o toyso clotheso things for school

When going to school...o Your mother had to take you to school and you always cried before getting there.o You had no problem going and soon started talking to friends deciding what

you'd do at at school.o You went to school but nobody talked to you because you'd answer nothing and

look at people with an angry face.

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Conversation QuestionsChildren


Related: Childbirth, Childhood

Were there many children in your family? How many children do you have. How many would you like to have. Do you enjoy being around children? When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? What are the positive or negative things about being a child? Do you think that children are different today from the time when you were child? Or

from 50 years ago? 100 years ago? What is most annoying or amazing thing about children? What is the most important thing that we need to teach children? Do you think that children are naturally good? Why or why not? What were some important experiences that you had when you were child which shaped

you as a person? Why do you think children commit violent crimes? Do you think children are more violent today than they used to be? Why? What was your favorite game when you were a child? Do we have to answer children's questions even if they are inappropriate ones? Is it better to err on the side of strictness or leniency with children? Who should be primarily responsible for taking care of children? Wife? Husband?

Grandparents? Relatives? Day-care center? What are the most important lessons to teach young children at home? Older children? Is childhood the best time of life? Who raised you? Your parents or grandparents or another family member? Are you close to your parents? Do you get along well with your parents? What did your family like to do together when you were a child? What are your fondest childhood memories? What are your earliest childhood memories? What were your favorite games as a child? How did you play as a child? Who was your best childhood friend? What was the most important lesson your parents taught you? Should children be paid for household chores? Can you remember doing anything that got you into trouble? What was it? How were you

punished?

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Should children be spanked? Why or why not? What was your favorite toy? What was your favorite toy as a child? Do you think children today are under more pressure? Do you think parents today have less time for their children? Do you think video games are a bad influence on children? Do you think children watch too much television? Do we have a responsibility to correct children when their parents aren't around and they

are misbehaving? Do you think it is important for children to learn English and their family's native

language? Why? How do you think children can learn through play ? What are basic children's rights? At what age should discipline be introduced to children? Can you tell when a child is being honest or trying to get away from something? How? Did you have any accidents at home as a child? If yes, what happened? What's something children do that you'd like to be able to do it too? What's the cutest thing you think children do? What's a bad thing you think children do? What kind of games do you like to play these days with children? Do you agree that children nowadays are smarter then the children from some decades

ago used to be? What are you never going to allow, or have never allowed, your children to do? Is there a best time to have children?

o If yes, when do you think that is? When is it OK for little girls to wear makeup? What do children use their cellphones for?

o Will you give one to your children?o After what age?

Conversation QuestionsCities


Why do you like living in the city? What are some of the advantages of living in a city? What are some of the disadvantages of living in a city? Do you know the neighbors who live near you? What's your favorite city? Why? What city do you live in?

o What part of this city do you like the best?o Can you describe the city?

What aspects of life in the city would you complain about? What do you think should be done to improve living condition in cities? What are some differences between living in the city and living in the country? What size city is best to live in? Why? What are the names of two big cities in Europe? What are the names of two small cities in Europe? Would you prefer to live in a really old historical city, or a really new modern city? If you had grown up in a different city, how would your life have been different? Did you grow up in the city or in the country? Would you enjoy designing a new city ? Do you walk alone at night in your home city? Would you want to be the mayor of your city?

o What would you do?o How would you change things?o Do you think you could make big changes in your city?

Would you want to be a member of the city council of your city? What monuments of your city do you consider the most impressive? Why? Do you like modern cosmopolitan architecture? How would you describe the architecture of your city? Which cities do you feel safe in? Which cities have the best bus services/taxis/metro? How can we make our cities safer places to live?

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Do you think that each city should have their own laws or could all cities share the same general laws?

What would you do if you were in charge of a city? How would you improve it? Do you know if your city has a disaster plan for earthquakes, fires, tsunamis, etc?

o If so, what is the plan?o In your opinion, is it a good/sufficient plan?o What changes would you make?

Do all the cities in your country or the U.S. have the same educational system? Can you suggest some good tourist sites to visit in your city? Does your city have a professional or semi-professional sports team?

o How many teams are there?o What are sports?o What are the team's names?o Do you go and watch some of these sports? How much does it cost?o Do some of these teams win championships?

What are you doing to reduce the amount of pollution in your city?o Does your city have any laws about dealing with pollution?o Do you follow them?o How do you sort garbage in your city?o Do you recycle on a regular basis?

If you had grown up in a different city, how would your life have been different? Would you enjoy designing a new city? Can you name two cities in twenty different countries around the world? Do you think some cities are becoming too large? Why? What are some tourist attractions in your city? What are some historical places in your city? Have you visited them? What's the most prestigious university in your city? What are the major problems in your city?

o What are some long term problems?o What are some recent problems?o What is your city doing to solve these problems?o What do you think should be done to solve them ?o What are you doing to help solve these problems?

Where's the trendiest area in your city? Do you enjoy going there? who are some famous personalities from your city? What would you do to improve some aspects of your city? Which city's sports team do you cheer for? Is your city very cosmopolitan? What are some cosmopolitan cities around the world What is the most important part of a city? Who is the local government head in your city? Which cities would you like to visit in your home country? Which cities would you like to visit around the world?

Conversation QuestionsClothes & Fashion


About how much money do you spend on clothes a year? Do you like shopping for new clothes? Do you often buy new clothes? Do you prefer to go shopping or just browse? Why? Do you think men should be allowed to wear skirts? What piece of clothing do you spend your money on the most? Why? Do you read fashion magazines? Do you sometimes wear a hat? Do you think it is important to wear fashionable clothes?

o Do you think it is important to be in fashion? Do you wear jewelry?

o If so, what kind of jewelry do you wear?o How often do you wear jewelry?o What is your most valuable piece of jewelry?

Do you wear the same color clothes now that you wore ten years ago?

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Do you wear the same size clothes this year as you wore last year? Do you think people feel different when they wear different clothes? Have you ever made your own clothes?

o If so, what did you make?o Do you often make your own clothes?

How many pairs of gloves do you have? What are some of the strangest fashions you have seen? What colors do you think look good on you? What colors do you think look good on your mother? What did you wear yesterday? What do you think of body piercing?

o Do you have pierced ears?o Do you know anyone with a pierced nose?o Would you ever pierce your tongue?

What do you think of people who dye their hair green? What do you think of women who wear high heel shoes?

o Do you think high heel shoes are bad for a person's health? What fashions that you see today do you think will be out of fashion within two years? What is your shoe size? What kind of clothes are in fashion now? What kind of clothes do you usually wear? What's the most expensive piece of clothing you have ever bought? What's your favorite color for shoes? When was the last time you got dressed up?

o Why?o How often do you get dressed up?o Do you like to get dressed up?

Where are some good stores to buy clothes in this area? Where do you usually buy clothes? Would you like to be a fashion model?

Questions on Styles, Clothing and Fashion-based Stereotypes

What would you think of a women who cut off all her hair and went around bald as a fashion statement?

What do you think of a man who is bald for fashion's sake? What do you think of women who wear short mini-skirts? Do you think that the clothes we wear reflect what is inside us ? What do you think of people who always and only wear black? What do you think of people with tattoos?

o Do you have a tattoo?o Do you know someone with a tattoo?

What do you think of people with body piercing?o Do you have pierced ears?o Would you pierce other parts of your body?

What would you think of a high school student who always wore very conservative clothes?

What type of clothing do you wear when you are angry and you want to express yourself?

What colors do you choose to wear when you are happy? Would you dress the same as you do in your country if you went to America for a visit? Do you dress the same when you are depressed as you do when you are very happy?

o In what ways do you dress differently? If you went out with a group of high school friends, would you dress differently then if you

went out with your grandmother and her friends? In what ways does your Grandmother dress differently then you? When you get old do you think you will dress like your grandmother or grandfather? Would you ever wear dreadlocks?

o What do you think of the people who wear them? Have you ever worn your hair braided in small braids.

o Did anyone look at you differently because of it? Would you ever wear contacts to change your eye color? What is the difference in the people who choose to wear contacts and the people who

choose to were glasses? What do you think about women who don't wear earrings? What do you think about men who wear earrings?

o What do you think of women who do?

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Is it possible for women to wear too much make-up?o When is a person wearing to much make-up?o What do you think of men who wear make-up?

Is it possible to be beautiful without wearing any make-up, earrings or other accessories?

Do fashionable clothes really change the way a person looks? What differences have you noticed in the fashions here and in your country? What do you think of men who where tights? What do you think about secondhand clothes?

o Why do you think people buy secondhand clothes?o Have you ever been to a store that sells secondhand clothes?o Have you ever bought secondhand clothes?o Would you buy secondhand clothes?

When and where did you buy an article of clothing you're wearing right now? Why did you choose it?

What would you think if the mother of the groom wore black at a wedding?o What would you think if a bride wore red?o Should a bride's dress be long or do you think it could be the length of a regular

skirt? What items of clothing do you consider provocative in this country?

o What types of clothing are provocative in your country?o Do you ever dress this way?

What do you think of men wearing high heels? What do you think of women wearing high heels? Why is it acceptable for women to wear men's clothing, but not for men to dress in

women's clothing? Is there a stigma attached to people who buy no-name (no brand) clothing? Are some people more fashion conscious than others? What types/groups of people? Have you ever bought imitation brand clothing? What traditional clothes do people from your country wear?

o When do you wear them?o Are they comfortable?

In your country do children have to wear school uniform?o Did you wear a school uniform?o Do you think wearing uniforms is a good idea?

What would you do or feel if you were refused entry to somewhere because of what you are wearing?

Do you think dress codes should be adhered to if requested on an invitation? What would you wear to meet royalty or the President of your country? Would you go to a fancy dress party? Why or why not? How much do you spend getting ready to go to school? Work? Out with friends? To a

party?o Do the times vary much?

What traditional clothes do people from your country wear? When do you wear them? Are they comfortable? Do you think there's a difference between" fashion " and "style" ? How often do you go clothes shopping?

o Where do you like to go?o Who do you like to go with?o How much money do you usually spend?o Would you bring your husband/boyfriend with you when you go clothes

shopping? What do you like to shop for the most? Where is your favorite shopping centre? What is your favorite brand? Are you a shopaholic? Do you go to many shops before buying one particular item or do you just buy the first

one you find? Do you spend a lot of money on clothes your clothes? Which type of clothes do you "collect"? What's your favorite piece of clothing?

o How much did it cost?o Where did you buy your favorite piece of clothing?

Have you ever felt uncomfortable with what you wear? Did your parents ever make you wear something you didn't like? Do you like to go shopping during the sales?

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Conversation QuestionsCollege


Related: University

What is the name of your college or university? How many students go to your college? Is your college coed? How many subject are you taking this semester? Who is your favorite teacher? How did you decide which college to attend? What is your typical day at college like? What are three big differences between your college life so far and your high school

days? What is your major? Why did you choose your major? Do you have any regrets? What is the most difficult class you have taken so far? Have you ever pulled an all nighter? What was the situation? Have you participated in a college festival?

o Talk about your experience.o Do you think this style of festival is held in Western countries? Why or why not?

Are you a member of any student groups? Which ones? What do you do? Are you satisfied with what's happening with your group(s)?

Are there some professors that you can learn from more easily than others?o What are the qualities that make you want to study for a certain professor?

What are the top three changes you would like to see happen at your university? What do you think of student government?

o Are you now or have you ever been part of it?o Do you think it's worthwhile?o Does participation in student government bring any benefits to the participants?

What? What are the top three things you hope to get out of (get as a result of) your university

days? In the West, one of the most valued parts of college life is independence.

o Are you more independent from your parents now than you were in high school?o Name some things you can do now that you weren't allowed to do in high school.o Are you as independent now as you would like to be?

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http://iteslj.org/questions/university.html


Talk about relations between upperclassmen and freshmen.o What kinds of things do freshmen have to do for "initiation?"o What other things do upperclassmen do to freshmen?o Were you a victim of "hazing" by upperclassmen? Talk about it.

What's the most difficult class you have taken so far? Are you a member of any student groups (circles or club)?

o Which ones?o Are you satisfied with what's happening with your group(s)?

Are there some professors that you can learn from more easily than others?o What are the qualities that make you want to study for a certain professor?o Perhaps is it just a matter of class rules and homework demanded?

What do you think of student government?o Are you now or have you ever been part of it?o Do you think it's worthwhile?o Does student government do anything important?o Does participation in student government bring any benefits to the participants?

What?

For Students who have Graduated from College.

What is your fondest memory of your college experience? What is your worst memory of your college experience? Were there any subjects that you just couldn't seem to master? Were you a good student or did you slack off and procrastinate? Did you have any college romances? What was the hardest thing about going to college? If you could have done something different with your college life, what would you have

done differently? Where did you get the money to attend college? Do you feel it is necessary for young people to attend college these days?

o What happens to people who just stop after high school or even quit high school? Do you wish your college had a better sports program?

Conversation QuestionsColors

A Part of Conversation Questions for the ESL Classroom. Note that "colors" is also correctly spelled "colours."

What's your favorite color?o Has your favorite color changed as you've grown older?

Do you have a color that you hate?o If so, what is it?o Why do you hate it?

Do you think colors affect your mood?o How does red make you feel?o How does green make you feel?o How does blue make you feel?o How does purple make you feel?o How does black make you feel?o How does white make you feel?o How does yellow make you feel?o How does brown make you feel?o How does grey make you feel?o What do you think of orange?

Do you think different cultures have different meanings for colors?o What do the different colors mean in your culture?

Do you associate any colors with specific items, numbers, or letters not usually associated with color?

Can you think of different idioms or expressions involving color?o What's a "black and white" matter.o What does it mean to "see red"?o What does it mean to "feel blue"?

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o What does it mean to "be yellow"?o What's a "black tie affair"?o What does it mean to be "blacklisted"?o What does it mean to be "the black sheep in the family"?

How many colors are in the rainbow? What are they? What colors are on your national flag? What's the best color for a car?

o What's the best color for a house?o What do you think is the best color for lens in sunglasses?

What's the color for passion?o What's the color for hatred?o What's the color for happiness?o What's the color for sadness?o What's the color for anger?o What's the color for death?o What's the color for jealousy?o What is the color of envy ?o What's the color for cowardice?

What color is money in your country? Do you know anyone who is color blind?

o What colors do most color blind people not see? Do you think animals can see color? What does black-sheep of the family mean? Do you dream in color? How would you compare the feeling you get watching a movie in black and white to

watching it in color? What color clothes do you like to wear?

o What colors do you think look good on you?o What color shoes do you like to wear?

What do you think is the strangest color for a car?o How about a house?o How about clothing?o How about hair color?

Do you know anyone who has dyed their hair a strange color? (... an unnatural hair color such as blue or multiple shades?)

Have you ever seen a pet dog or cat with dyed fur? Do you think different colors have different meanings? If so, what do different colors

mean? Do the color blind dream in color?

o Do you think people who are color blind can dream in color? What color ink do you like using the most?

o What is the meaning of writing with black ink?o What is the meaning of writing with green ink?o What is the meaning of writing with red ink?o What is the meaning of writing with blue ink?

What color of paper you like most if you want to write a letter to your friends or loved ones?

What is the color of the bedspread on your bed? What is your least favorite color? What color toothbrush do you have?

o Does everyone in your family use a different color toothbrush? What color towels do you use? What color are the curtains in your bedroom? What does it mean when someone says he's feeling blue? What does it means when someone says they are green with envy? w\What does it means when someone says "you look green at the gills"? What does it mean when someone says "I was so mad I was seeing red"? What does it mean when someone says "he was black as an ace of spades"? What is pink eye? We are not sure what this means, but it was submitted.

o What does it mean when you see the color of a rainbow in your eyes? What would you think of life without colors?

o What do you think life would be like without colors?o How would life change?o What things wouldn't change?o Are color blind people completely blind to all colors?

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Do you think a person's favorite color will always be his/her favorite color?o Do favorite colors change throughout life?

Have you ever tried to invent a new color?o Try it right now: try to think of a color that doesn't exist, one you'd like to see.o What does it look like?o (Note: It is physically impossible to conceive of a color that isn't a shade of a

color that already exists, but students will enjoy trying for a few minutes and the impossibility of it makes for good conversation.)

What does the black sheep of the family mean? Do you like light or dark colors better? Which colors do you have to mix to get green? Orange? Purple? Black? Gray? What expressions include colors when discussing illness? (ex., white or pale, pink eye,

black and blue for bruises, yellow fever) What expressions include colors and feelings? (ex. I feel blue, Green with envy, Red

with rage, Turning red, Black circles under the eyes, You are turning blue (with the cold)) What do the colors in your home country's flag represent? What is the most memorable in advertisements or commercials for you? (ex. the music,

colors, movement, message) What does "a picture is worth a thousand words mean"? This word is used when traveling: I bought a ticket on the red eye flight. What might this

mean?

Conversation QuestionsComic Books


Do you like comics?o Do you like American comic books?o Do you like comics from other countries?o Do you like fantasy comics?o Do you like funny comics?o Do you like realistic comics?o What do you like about comics?o What comics do you like?o What comics do you love?o What comics do you hate?

Do you play any video games based on comic books? Have you watched any anime?

o Have you read any Japanese manga? Have you read any comics in English? How are comics different from one country to another?

o How are comic books different in this country from those in your country? How have comics changed over time? How many comics do you read a week?

o How much time do you spend reading comics? How often do you read comics?

o How often do you read comics in English? Should comics have a rating system like the movies (G, PG, R)? What comics have you read in English? What can you learn from comics? What is more important to you, the story or the pictures? What is the best comic book you've ever read? What type of comic appeals to girls?

o What types appeal to boys?o What types appeal to adults?

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What was the last comic book you read? Can you remember the first comic book you read? Where do you usually read comic books? Who do you think reads comic books? Do you think boys read more comic books than girls?

o Why do you think more ___ (boys) read comics than ___ (girls)? Do you think people in this country read more comic books than in your country? Who has better comics DC or Marvel? (Or ask about two other comic book publishers.) Why are comics so popular? Why do people like to read comics? Why do you think Hollywood makes so many movies from comic books? Why don't more people read comic books? Are comic books better than (regular) books? At what age is a person too old to read comics? Do violent comics make people think more about violence? Cost

o About how much do you spend on comics in a month?o How much do you spend on comic books?o How much should a comic book cost?o Is collecting comics a good investment?

Who is the worst comic book character? When you read comics, who is more interesting the hero or the villain? Who is your favorite villain? Who would your arch enemy be? Super heroes

o Who would win a fight between Batman or Superman?o Which super hero is most like you?o What qualities do you need to be a super hero?o Who is the the most popular super hero in your country?o What super hero should have a movie made about him/her?o Who is the most popular comic book hero in your country?o What real life person could be a super hero?o If you could make your own super hero what would his or her name be?

What would his superpower be?o Do we need more super heroes?

If you could have one superpower what would it be? What is the best superpower to have? What are some complaints that some parents have about comic books? Why do people like to read comic books?

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